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Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe combines tender rotini pasta with savory ground beef in a rich, creamy garlic and Parmesan cheese sauce, making for a comforting and satisfying main course perfect for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz rotini pasta

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Chopped parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese


Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined later.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until fully browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  3. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Make the Roux: Push the beef to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  5. Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and beef broth, stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  6. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
  7. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  8. Simmer and Serve: Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld together. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk or beef broth until desired consistency is reached.
  • Rotini pasta is ideal for holding the sauce, but penne or fusilli are excellent alternatives.